Interfaith Coalition of Whatcom County

CAST (Coffee and Sandwiches Together) is a non-profit organization that has been feeding hungry people on the streets of downtown Bellingham for nearly twenty years. Four evenings a week, CAST volunteers make up to 170 sandwiches; we then set up tables and serve the sandwiches along with fresh fruit, granola bars, ramen noodle cups, juice boxes, and bottled water. We also offer toothbrushes, soap, shampoo, and other hygiene items as available.

CAST has a simple mission – If you are hungry, here's some food. We have no other agenda; we serve anyone who shows up without question, judgment or qualification. Can you please help us by donating to CAST? Many of our guests are experiencing homelessness and/or food insecurity. Due to rapidly rising housing prices, economic conditions and other social factors, our guest count continues to increase. We are currently serving approximately 80 people per night, which is up from an average of 50 people 5 years ago. This escalation poses a challenge to our existence. Our financial existence depends on human kindness.

We have a contract with the City of Bellingham to use the site, and we operate with a permit from the health department. A local church provides us with kitchen space and a storeroom for our supplies. We have no paid staff. More than 97% of our funds go directly toward the purchase of supplies. We have no corporate sponsors, receive no tax money, and have no reserve endowment. Our $30,000 annual operating costs are funded by small donations from people who believe that no one should go hungry. Your donation is greatly appreciated, and we sincerely thank you.

Although CAST is a Fiscally Sponsored Program of Interfaith Coalition, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization registered in Washington, CAST conducts fundraising efforts separately from Interfaith Coalition and relies on donor and volunteer support for year-round operations.